Cross Breeds

Is it easier to have small or big dogs while raising kids?

I LOVE big dogs, but I have always had small- medium dogs because they do better running around the house and wear out easier on walks. However, I am realizing that my theory is not accurate as some smaller dogs, like say a beagle are just have crazy energy and some bigger dogs, like Newfoundland dogs are lazy. Am I wrong to avoid bigger dogs while I have kids due to thinking that they are higher maintence?

Public Comments

1. Medium-large dogs are usually better with kids than smaller dogs. They are more tolerant of being manhandled and pestered by a child as they are not so afraid of being injured. There are also a lot of lower-energy dogs that are large. Take Greyhounds, for example. They are well-known couch potatoes, they like a run a few times a week, otherwise they're pretty happy to laze around the house.
2. Depends on the dog and the kids, but judging by the cutie in your Avatar, I'd suggest a larger, less fragile dog that is child friendly. Small dogs are easily harmed by very young children who don't realize they are playing too rough. Even a Newfie needs plenty of exercise - they are not lazy. Be careful about generalizations. My big dogs need plenty of activity.
3. a medium dog would be perfect. Maybe an AustralianShepard, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, or Vizula/Weimeriner? Hope that helps
4. well, it really depends on the dog. i have never known small dogs to be very great with kids, because they are hurt easier and tend to nip. a well trained, or even semi trained large dog will do great with small kids. they tend to be more tolerant than a little dog whose bones and skin are tender. also, as you said, small dogs tend to be VERY hyper. personally, i would rather have a dog that is a bit lazy but will still take a run with you at the park when you want to. it is true though that large dogs eat more. if you dont get a longhaired dog, or if you learn to shave one you can do it yourself and save the cost. gray hounds are a personal favorite of mine. not only are they beautiful at rest and in motions, but they are all around good dogs. Hope this helps.
5. a child of six is certainly ready to help raise a dog. the behavior of the dog will depend more upon its upbringing than its breed. dogs and children should always be supervised until you are completely confident in both temperments and abilities.
6. a medium to larger sized dog is what we've always had. Smaller dogs can become play toys for younger children and that can cause serious injury to the pet or child. Bigger dogs can stand a bit of rough housing. They do require exercise but I wouldn't say they are higher maintenance. One of the lowest maintenance dogs you can have is a lab, aside from exercise and lots of love, they don't need much grooming (beside a nail trim every now and then)!
7. If the children are under 3 years of age wait to get any animal as kids can be spiteful. If not get just one little dog, they can be involved with walks and training etc. and the poops are not so big.
8. Yes having small dogs around little kids can be a problem because most small dogs are nervous of kids and could bite a small child, a lab is a good gentle dog to have around kids.
9. Big dogs tend to be better with kids. I have three toy breed dogs and they all dis-like kids and tend to snap at them. I also have a pit/Aussie mix he is a gentle giant and the kids prefer him to the little ones too. :)
10. i think having bigger dogs becuase they can handle the rough treatment (cause all kids do it at some point) and alot of the bigger dogs are more lazy than the smaller ones and most have better temperments when it comes to kids, i have a husky and she's great with kids and me and my husband are expecting out first baby, so we have no fears with her and the baby.
11. As a serial multiple dog owner I have had both large and small dogs while raising kids. Managing kids and dogs is hard. I find larger dogs are more taxing in their needs and do find small dogs much easier, but you do have to be selective, I guess, just as you would have to be to find a big dog trustable with children. If you get a small dog from rescue you have the chance to know their character before bringing one home. Other than that, if you desire a puppy that will grow up small, then really study your breeds. I have found the spaniel breeds tend to be easy going and laid back and do well with kids. I have a Tibetan Spaniel/Cavalier mix who tolerates all the pulls and rough play from toddlers that can be thrown her way. I had a pure Tibbie in the past who was the same. I also have a purebred Cavalier Spaniel who tolerates a lot and doesn't ever nip, but prefers not to be bothered by children if they are being rough, and retires to his crate to avoid them. I know as well a couple of Shih Tzus the same way (not the tiny kind, but the originally sized 14 pound ones) and also a Shih Tzu/Bichon cross and a Cocker Spaniel that are amazing with kids. I do also know dogs of these breeds/mixes who are not. To get a small dog that is predictable in temperament, though, you REALLY need to get one from a good breeder who is temperament screening. Too many unscrupulous breeders of pure and mixed are not weeding out the bad temperaments which gives many small dogs a bad rap. . . . and big or small, dogs and kids should always be supervised while they are together. Please do not ever purchase a puppy, pure or mixed, from someone breeding in bulk, or from a breeder not doing the proper health testing on the parents, or caring for them as you would want your own pet cared for.
12. I'm an owner of 4 Saint Bernards and i also have 3 children (6yrs,5yrs,&4yrs). The big dogs are lazier and can with stand a child falling on them and pulling at their ears and tail. As far as high maintanence it goes by coat too. I have found that my smooth coated Saints only need to be brushed 1 time a week and my rough coated needs it every night. I would go with a big dog.
13. you should have a dog that loves children..